The task of filing your own application for a trademark can be complicated and time consuming. You must submit an original trademark application to the United States Patent and Trademark Office, or USTPO, that is true and correct in every way to avoid a rejection. Some problems resulting from errors in the original trademark application cannot be corrected, such as the goods and services you describe. Filing for a trademark amendment is a similarly arduous task but requires a different procedure.

Familiarize yourself with the USTPO’s U.S. Trademark Law, Rules of Practice and Federal Statues document. Find the Amendment of Application section and determine if the aspect of the trademark you want to amend is allowed to be amended. For example, amending the description or drawing of a mark will only be allowed in certain circumstances.

Find the 714 Amendments, Applicant's Action [R-6] - 700 Examination of Applications on the TEAS website to determine the procedure for filing an amendment application. Procedures like, when you may file the application and how to amend a drawing are covered in this section.

Form and review the amendment. Composing the amendment has its own specifications. Applications must be written in a clear, concise manner. The complete wording of the original document with all revisions clearly marked should be submitted. Vet the document carefully and correct errors. If you receive a final rejection to your application, you may not request another amendment.

Sign and file the application. Your signature is required on the application along with the signature of a lawyer or officer of your company. Depending on the type of application you are submitting, you may be able to file it online with the TEAS. If you have to mail your application make sure to keep copies of the originals and require a signature upon delivery.

Tip

All things considered, your time may be better spent on business projects in your area of expertise. The length of time it takes and the attention to detail required to file a trademark amendment on your own may not be cost effective in terms of what your time is worth per hour. Trademark application services are now available through the Internet. The parameters of your application can be submitted to an attorney electronically and the attorney can prepare and file the application for you.

Warning

Carefully vet all professionals and services before hiring them to file your trademark amendment application.

About the Author

Alexis Prescott has worked in the financial sector for more than 10 years writing internal reports for two major financial institutions. She holds a B.A. in economics and a Master of Business Administration with finance concentration.